Grandma’s Secret Pasta Rigatoni recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together simple ingredients for a satisfying meal. With creamy scrambled eggs, sautéed onions, juicy cherry tomatoes, and perfectly cooked rigatoni pasta, this dish is packed with flavors that will remind you of home-cooked meals from your childhood. Finished with melted cheese and a touch of sour cream, this pasta dish is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 150 grams Pasta Rigatoni
- 4 eggs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 100 grams cheese (grated, your choice of cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Pasta Rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Eggs 2. In a bowl, beat the 4 eggs with salt, black pepper, and dried garlic. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables 3. Peel and chop the onion finely. Cut the cherry tomatoes into halves. 4. Heat the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Scramble the Eggs 5. Add the beaten eggs to the pan with the onions. Scramble the eggs gently, cooking until fully set, and make sure they are soft and fluffy.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce 6. Stir in the cooked Pasta Rigatoni, halved cherry tomatoes, sour cream, and freshly chopped parsley. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the egg mixture.
Step 6: Add Cheese 7. Grate the cheese and sprinkle it over the pasta. Cover the pan and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
Step 7: Serve 8. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired, and enjoy Grandma’s delicious and comforting pasta dish with your family!
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- Topped with Extra Cheese: Sprinkle some extra grated cheese on top for a cheesier version of this dish.
- With Garlic Bread: Pair with warm, crispy garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
- As a Main Course: This pasta can be enjoyed as the main dish for lunch or dinner. It’s hearty and filling, perfect for any time of day.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the rigatoni just until al dente for the best texture. Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor and freshness to the dish. Feel free to use other herbs like basil or oregano for variety.
- Add More Vegetables: If you like, add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Use Your Favorite Cheese: This recipe works well with a variety of cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan. Pick your favorite for a personalized touch.
Nutritional Benefits
- Pasta Rigatoni: A great source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your day. Whole wheat pasta can be used for added fiber.
- Eggs: High in protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D and choline, which are important for brain and muscle health.
- Tomatoes: Packed with vitamins C and K, tomatoes also provide antioxidants like lycopene, which is good for heart health.
- Parsley: A great source of vitamins A, C, and K, parsley adds fresh flavor while providing numerous health benefits, including supporting immune function.
Dietary Information
- Contains dairy and eggs.
- For a gluten-free version: Use gluten-free pasta in place of regular rigatoni.
- Dairy-free version: Use dairy-free sour cream and cheese substitutes to make this recipe dairy-free.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity and comfort. It’s easy to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients, yet the flavors come together to create a rich and satisfying dish. The creamy eggs, savory sautéed onions, fresh parsley, and melted cheese complement the pasta perfectly, making each bite a delight. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or for serving guests at a family gathering.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Secret Pasta Rigatoni recipe is a simple, hearty, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for all occasions. With its creamy, cheesy filling and fresh, flavorful ingredients, it’s the kind of dish that will become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute rigatoni with other types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, for a similar result. -
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day. Just reheat it before serving and add the cheese. -
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pasta with the sauce. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving. -
What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs perfectly with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. -
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a diced jalapeño to the egg mixture for a spicier version. -
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrients. -
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Mozzarella, Parmesan, or cheddar work great in this recipe. Use your favorite cheese to suit your taste. -
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
You can try using an egg substitute, such as tofu or a flaxseed mixture, if you’re looking for a vegan version. -
How do I know when the dish is done?
The dish is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the eggs are fully cooked and scrambled. -
Can I use a dairy-free cream or sour cream?
Yes, you can use dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or almond milk cream to make this recipe dairy-free.